The 2026 AMBA Conference, held May 12-14 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, lived up to its “Ideas Ignite!” theme by bringing together mold manufacturing leaders, emerging professionals and industry partners for three days of high-energy learning and connection. From the opening welcome reception and supplier trade fair to the closing awards celebration, the conference delivered a mix … [Read more...] about Powering the Future of Mold Manufacturing
Articles
Tooling Innovations
By Liz Stevens, writer, The American Mold Builder In this age of relentless technological advances, mold builders are reaping benefits from tooling innovations that are reshaping mold manufacturing. A variety of advanced design and machining options, simulation technologies and modular tooling components now are available to reduce lead times, improve quality and address … [Read more...] about Tooling Innovations
Manufacturers Experience Healthcare Cost Increases in 2025, Search for New Options
By Andrew Carlsgaard, benchmarking and analytics director, AMBA Healthcare and benefits strategy remains one of the most consequential business decisions US manufacturers make each year. In 2026, employers continue to face rising health benefit costs, tighter operating budgets and greater pressure to use benefits as both a retention tool and a financial management … [Read more...] about Manufacturers Experience Healthcare Cost Increases in 2025, Search for New Options
Get Out of the Rate Race… A Smarter Way for Manufacturers to Manage Healthcare Costs
By Troy Nix, executive director, AMBA Health benefits remain one of the largest – and most unpredictable – line items in a manufacturing company’s budget. Recent reporting underscores just how acute the challenge has become. According to The New York Post, US employers are facing projected healthcare cost increases of 7% to 10% over the next 12 months, the steepest rise in … [Read more...] about Get Out of the Rate Race… A Smarter Way for Manufacturers to Manage Healthcare Costs
Leadership Isn’t Just a Title
By Jen Porett, manager, Wipfli Leadership isn’t defined by a title, but by influence. Whether it’s formally recognized or not, everyone within an organization has the ability to lead. Leadership shows up in: It’s about what a person does, not the position they hold. For example, two powerful ways to demonstrate leadership are to set clear expectations and coach for … [Read more...] about Leadership Isn’t Just a Title
Built to Lead: Inside the AMBA Awards
By Lindsey Munson, editor, The American Mold Builder David LaGrow Named AMBA’s 2026 Mold Builder of the Year For 38 years, David LaGrow, president of Maximum Mold, St. Joseph, Michigan, has represented the best of American mold manufacturing – combining entrepreneurial vision, technical expertise and an excitement for strengthening and building future mold builders. Tim … [Read more...] about Built to Lead: Inside the AMBA Awards